Lori Williams

I am a veteran teacher with over 30 years of experience, combining my passion for vocal jazz with a dedication to music education. I spent 27 years teaching in the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), including at Wilson High School, where I worked to inspire and nurture young musicians.

In addition to my work in DCPS, I have served as a vocal jazz artist-in-residence at Old Dominion University (ODU) and North Carolina A&T State University (NCAT), mentoring and guiding aspiring vocalists. My teaching has also taken me abroad, where I have had the privilege of sharing my expertise and love for vocal music with students from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Currently, I am preparing to begin working on my master’s degree in vocal jazz studies at Georgia State University in the fall, further deepening my knowledge and skills to better serve my students. With decades of experience, I strive to create engaging and enriching learning environments that foster creativity, technical growth, and a deep appreciation for music in all my students.

I approach teaching vocal students with a dynamic and supportive style. I use improvisation to encourage creativity and help students build confidence in their unique vocal expressions. By incorporating focused breathing techniques, I ensure they develop strong vocal control and endurance, enhancing their overall performance and vocal health.

In addition, I emphasize the importance of proper diction, vowel shaping, and resonance to achieve clarity and richness in tone. I guide students in developing their vocal range and agility through targeted exercises, as well as improving pitch accuracy and ear training for better musicality. I also incorporate techniques for managing vocal tension and building stamina, ensuring long-term vocal health.

I work at each student’s pace, creating a comfortable and individualized learning environment. At the same time, I challenge them to expand their vocal repertoire and explore new styles, helping them grow while maintaining a balance between encouragement and constructive development.